The Hebron Fund sponsored a barbecue for Israel Defense Force soldiers stationed in the Hebron region for Yom Haatzmaut (Israel Independence Day.) The amount of donations and volunteers far exceeded previous years with 15 bases in one day arriving to Hebron.

Rabbi Dan Rosenstein, Executive Director, of the Hebron Fun stated  “because of your support, we did it, and the thank yous I am sending you from the soldiers are heartfelt and filled with appreciation. This unique partnership exemplifies our ability to make a difference where it's needed most.”

 

He added, “Since October 7th, together, we have continuously impacted soldiers and residents where there was nobody else to support them but us. While celebrating during these difficult times might feel challenging, it was more important than ever to show our appreciation to the soldiers for their hard work and sacrifice. You really came through and boosted the spirits of the IDF soldiers stuck on base this week for Yom Ha’atzmaut.”

 

Yishai Fleisher, the international spokesperson for the Jewish community of Hebron attended a barbecue manned by volunteers from the United States and other places. As they stood over a sizzing grill willed with steak and vegetables, a volunteer from Baltimore, Maryland stated they were serving “only the best food cooked with love and support so that they [the IDF} can do their job.”

 

Fleisher noted that the 76th anniversary of Irael’s independence is not an easy year, to which a volunteer responded, “we're so appreciative of everything that the soldiers do. We want to show our appreciation by cooking the best possible food.”

 

Yom Haatzmaut was preceded by Yom Hazikaron (Memorial Day) and the annual ceremony was held outside the Tomb of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs (Cave of Machpela) and the military section of the ancient cemetery.

 

The next day a somewhat muted celebration was held outside the Tomb of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs including local singers, a children’s choir and speeches. The Tomb complex was lit up with a giant Israeli flag. The Touching Eternity museum at the historic Beit Hadassah building was open free of charge.